Date of Conferral

8-21-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Lori Salgado

Abstract

Due to persistently high rates of incarceration and recidivism, the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services developed policies and programs geared towards reducing recidivism. Existing literature indicated that successful reentry depends on access to coordinated support services, there was a lack of qualitative studies that explored the perspectives of individuals who were formerly incarcerated, specifically in the state of Maryland. The purpose of this generic qualitative research was to understand the reentry process from the perspective of 12 individuals who were formerly incarcerated. Semi structured interviews were used to explore the barriers and facilitators within the re-entry programs and processes that may be promoting recidivism. The general strain theory was used as a framework to explore how strains imposed on formerly incarcerated individuals caused them to reoffend. Thematic data analysis revealed four themes: (a) Resources are not always where they need to be, (b) Ensuring reentry resources reach end-users, (c) Reentry training for correctional officers and line staff, and (d) Potential for enhanced institutional reentry programing. Participants also expressed that resources should be available and accessible to all returning individuals and that there should be a monitoring system in place to ensure that the services provided meet the required standard. The implications for positive social change are that policymakers may use the results to reduce the high rate of recidivism.

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